Saxdor 400 GTO running on harbour water
Performance Cruiser

Saxdor 400 GTO

BoatLife's independent review of the Saxdor 400 GTO, covering ownership, performance, costs, buyer suitability, market comparisons and expert support.

Length12.1 m
Beam3.60 m
Passengers10
Top Speed45kts
Max Power900 hp
Fuel800 L

Key Statistics

12.1 mLength
3.60 mBeam
800 LFuel
900 hpMax Power
45ktsTop Speed
10Passengers

About this boat

The 400 GTO sits in a position in the Saxdor range that the 460 GTC and 320 GTO can't occupy: serious coastal cruiser and genuine performance boat at the same time. At 12.4 metres, it's large enough to handle multi-day coastal passages in real conditions, with enough cockpit space to entertain a group on a summer afternoon.

The layout is built around outdoor use. Dual fold-down electric side terraces expand the cockpit into a broad social platform, while the open deck flow keeps movement between helm, galley, seating and swim access simple.

The Scandinavian build precision is the same throughout the range: tight tolerances, quality materials and a clean practical finish. For Australian buyers, the appeal is strongest where entertaining, speed, easy servicing access and occasional overnight stays matter more than liveaboard volume or long-range displacement economy.

Specifications

Key Features

Twin-Step Deep-V Hull

Proprietary hull geometry reduces drag at speed while maintaining control in following and beam seas. Two ventilation steps allow planing at lower RPM, improving fuel efficiency by up to 18% over conventional V-hulls.

Vacuum-Infused GRP

The entire hull is vacuum infused rather than hand-laid, producing a consistently controlled fibre-to-resin ratio across every panel. This gives the 400 GTO a rigidity advantage over many Mediterranean competitors at the same LOA.

Simrad Factory Integration

Triple 16" MFD helm arrangement is configured and calibrated at the factory, not retrofitted. NMEA 2000 backbone is pre-wired so autopilot, AIS, VHF, and sonar integrate without aftermarket adaptation.

Open-Plan Cockpit

The 400 GTO's cockpit is unusually generous for a 39-footer. U-shaped aft seating converts to a sun lounge. The forward cabin sleeps two adults in real comfort, not just in theory or for children.

Up to 900 hp

Standard twin 300hp configuration covers most buyers. The triple 300hp option pushes performance into genuine sports-boat territory at 52 knots, while the twin 350hp mid-spec option gives the best economy-to-performance ratio.

NMMA Category B Rated

Certified for offshore passages in conditions up to Beaufort 8, sustained winds to 38 knots. For Australian east-coast boaters running Moreton Bay, the Whitsundays, or Sydney-Pittwater routes, this rating is non-trivial.

Brand Profile Video

Lifestyle

DayboatingFast, simple days on the water with easy access to deck space.
EntertainingOpen cockpit flow, terraces and social seating for guests.
Short staysUseful overnight capability for weekends and coastal stopovers.
AdrenalineOutboard performance and a stepped hull for serious pace.

Use & Fit

This is your boat if you are...

  • Upgrading into a first 40-foot-plus performance platform.
  • Using Sydney, Pittwater, Brisbane, Melbourne or Gold Coast waters.
  • Prioritising cockpit flow, terraces and fast day trips with guests.
  • Planning weekends and occasional short coastal passages.
  • Comfortable budgeting for premium ownership and training.

Consider something else if you...

  • Want diesel displacement economy or long-range passage speed.
  • Need regular sleeping for four or more in genuine comfort.
  • Require huge tender storage, flybridge space or liveaboard volume.
  • Are comparing only on base price without delivery and options.
  • Have limited Saxdor or Mercury service access locally.

Ideal Customer Avatars

The Simplifier

50-60 ft downsizer. Wants premium presentation with less friction. Values easy docking, lower draft and outboard service access. Prefers social cockpit space over multiple cabins.

The Step-Up Buyer

Smaller dayboat upgrader coming from a 25-35 ft bowrider, sports boat or weekender. Wants more weather confidence, range and overnight utility. Needs training, berth planning and realistic annual budget.

The Weekender

Superyacht owner add-on. Wants a fast, stylish boat for lunches, guest runs and escapes. Prioritises finish, speed, deck theatre and guest experience. Needs reliable detailing, service support and handover.

Dealer Walkthrough Video

Cost Calculator

Running Cost Reality Check

Estimated for a twin 300hp Mercury V8 configuration based on Sydney Harbour marina rates and current AUD fuel prices.

Days on the water per year60 days

Fixed Annual Costs

Variable (60 days x per day)

Estimated total annual cost
Based on 60 days on the water - twin 300hp Mercury V8 configuration
AUD $56,850

Estimates are indicative and based on Sydney metro marina rates, NSW registration fees, and current AUD fuel prices. Not financial advice.

BoatLife Cost Calculator

Use the full BoatLife calculator to model ownership costs, usage assumptions and budget scenarios in more detail.

Open Calculator

Comparisons - Brand Range Models

Saxdor 320 GTO running on open water

Saxdor 320 GTO

Compare if the 400 GTO feels larger, more expensive or more boat than you need.

Saxdor 400 GTC running through the archipelago

Saxdor 400 GTC

Compare if you like the 400 platform but want more enclosed comfort and weather protection.

Saxdor 460 GTC carving a turn at speed

Saxdor 460 GTC

Compare if you want more accommodation, range, protection and cruising comfort.

Comparisons - Direct Competitor Models

Axopar 45 Cross Top running on open water

Axopar 45

A close comparison for performance, Nordic design, outboard power and flexible deck use.

Fjord 41 XL running along the coast

Fjord 41 XL

Relevant if entertaining space, walkaround flow and premium open-boat presence are priorities.

Pardo 43 aerial running shot

Pardo 43

Compare if style, entertaining and premium marina presence matter as much as performance.

Comparisons - Alternative Lifestyle Models

Nimbus T11 on the water

Nimbus T11

Compare if you want a more utility-focused Scandinavian dayboat with strong practical usability.

Wallytender 43 at anchor by the cliffs

Wallytender 43

Compare if design, status and luxury dayboating are the main priorities.

Boston Whaler 405 Conquest running at speed

Boston Whaler 405 Conquest

Compare if offshore fishing, hardtop protection and serious utility matter more than lounge-led entertaining.

Independent Exert Review

Expert Verdict

“The Saxdor 400 GTO is the point where Saxdor's performance DNA becomes a genuinely usable coastal cruiser. It still feels fast, social and sharp, but the cockpit volume, terraces and overnight practicality make it far more than a dayboat.”
Dan's Boat Life

Owner Feedback

What owners appreciate

  • Twin-step deep-V hull: flat and controlled at speed in open water
  • Scandinavian build precision and fit and finish above class average
  • Generous cockpit volume for a 40-foot platform
  • Open-plan layout transitions naturally from day trips to overnight stays
  • Triple outboard option delivers outstanding power-to-weight performance
  • Factory Simrad electronics integration

Worth knowing before you buy

  • Options list adds up quickly, so budget carefully before specifying
  • Running beam seas at high speed requires experience
  • Less common outside European markets, so factor service coverage into your decision

Technical specifications

Hull & Structure

ConstructionVacuum-infused GRP
Hull FormTwin-step deep-V
Deadrise at Transom24°
Hull ClassificationNMMA Category B (offshore)
BallastNone (outboard platform)

Dimensions & Capacity

Length Overall12.10 m / 39.7 ft
Waterline Length11.25 m
Beam3.60 m / 11.8 ft
Draft (engine up)0.65 m / 2.1 ft
Displacement (half load)6,200 kg
Fuel Capacity800 L / 211 US gal
Water Capacity220 L
Holding Tank40 L
Persons10 (Category B)

Propulsion

Standard Config2 x Mercury 300hp V8
Mid Config2 x Mercury 350hp V8 (+ AUD $18,500)
Performance Config3 x Mercury 300hp V8 (+ AUD $32,000)
Max Power900 hp
Top Speed (3x300)52 knots
Cruise Speed (2x300)32–36 knots
Fuel Burn (cruise)~90 L/hr

Accommodation

Berths2 (V-berth forward)
Heads1 enclosed with shower
GalleyDay galley
Cockpit SeatingU-lounge aft + sun lounge conversion
Helm Seats2 bolster chairs

Electronics

Chartplotter3 x Simrad NSS16 evo3S
VHFSimrad RS40
AutopilotSimrad NAC-3 optional
RadarOptional Halo20+ dome
AIS TransponderOptional factory fit
SonarSimrad Active Imaging 3-in-1

Independent Exert Sea Trial

Purchase & Ownership Costs

Base Factory Price
AUD $465,000 - $540,000

The lower number reflects a factory starting point. Final pricing moves with engine package, build slot, freight and dealer setup.

Average Spec Price
AUD $700,000 - $850,000 drive-away

Includes popular options, electronics, upgraded engines, freight, commissioning, GST and dealer delivery. Australian dealer listings commonly sit in this range.

Average Running Costs
AUD $45,000 - $75,000 per year

Budget for marina or storage, insurance, servicing, antifoul, detailing, fuel, registrations and incidental maintenance.

Forecasted Depreciation
~10-15% Year 1, then 5-8% annually

Best-preserved examples usually have desirable engine configuration, clean service records and documented options.

Configurations

All pricing is indicative and based on factory-order additions to the base price. Final pricing confirmed with your authorised dealer.

Inspection Checklist

Hull & Structural Integrity

  • Inspect gelcoat for star cracking, blistering, or stress fractures.
  • Check through-hull fittings and every seacock for corrosion.
  • Inspect outboard bracket bolting and signs of stress under load.
  • Check twin-step hull ventilation slots for debris or impact damage.

Mechanical & Propulsion

  • Verify engine hours against service log.
  • Request full Mercury dealer service records.
  • Inspect anodes and impeller condition.
  • Run engines at temperature and check for smoke, vibration, or unusual noise.

Electronics & Electrical

  • Verify all three Simrad displays power on cleanly.
  • Check chartplotter track history.
  • Test VHF channels and DSC distress function.
  • Check battery bank condition.

Cosmetics & Interior

  • Inspect upholstery for UV fading, mould, or stitching failure.
  • Check teak for lifting, cracking, or delamination.
  • Inspect stainless fittings for pitting or rust bleed.
  • Verify cabinetry opens, latches, and shows no water intrusion marks.

BoatLife recommends engaging an AMSA-accredited marine surveyor for any used purchase. A professional pre-purchase survey typically costs AUD $1,200–$2,500.

Community Reviews & Feedback

★★★★

Marcus T.

“The comparison tools are great. Used them to decide between a few completely different styles of boats and based on my personal preferences it outlined things I didn't even think about.”

Boat owner, Riviera 4300
Sydney, NSW

★★★★★

Fiona R.

“I've owned three boats. The community here is the most useful i've found. The management tools are also great as it takes a lot of the pain out of owning the boat.”

Boat owner, Saxdor 340
Mornington, VIC

★★★★★

David K.

“Used BoatMatch before buying my first boat and ended up with something completely different to what I thought I wanted. Just buying the suggestion was the right call.”

First-time buyer
Brisbane, QLD

Frequently Asked Questions

The Saxdor leans further into outboard performance, open cockpit space, and Scandinavian day-boating design, while the Jeanneau is more conventional cruiser in feel.
Yes for experienced owners, especially with joystick docking and thruster options. The size and windage still demand practice.
Electronics, premium finishes, hardtop packages, engine upgrades, upholstery and lifestyle options can add materially to base pricing.
The Category B rating and deep-V hull are meaningful, but Bass Strait and exposed Queensland passages require weather discipline and experienced skippering.
For most Australian buyers, yes. It improves sun protection, shoulder-season usability and resale appeal.
Resale depends on dealer support, specification and condition. Strongly optioned examples with documented service history are easier to place.
Plan for annual outboard servicing, haulout, antifoul and routine systems care, with usage-driven maintenance added for higher-hour boats.

BoatScore™ System

What is the BoatScore?

89

BoatScore™ is BoatLife's independent scoring framework, not sponsored or influenced by any manufacturer. Each score is derived from four weighted sub-dimensions: reliability, value for money, comfort and space, and performance.

Reliability
90
Value for Money
86
Comfort & Space
88
Performance
91

Enquiry

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